Most recently, Ogene served as the general counsel of the InfiLaw System, a consortium of independent ABA-approved law schools that includes Coastal Law, Phoenix School of Law, and Charlotte School of Law. In his position, Ogene succeeds Peter Goplerud, who stepped down from the deanship in May to serve as president of a new InfiLaw management services company.

Ogene received a joint J.D. and M.B.A. from Georgetown University, and also received an L.L.B. from the University of Nigeria.

“Chidi was among a short list of very qualified internal and external candidates, and we believe he has both the experience and the requisite knowledge of Coastal Law and the InfiLaw consortium that will allow for a smooth and productive transition,” said Coastal Law President Dennis Stone.

Stone said he was hopeful Coastal Law will name a permanent dean by January 2014. However, he said Ogene is committed to the school if the search process extends longer.